We were so excited to finally see the Carnival Spirit up close when we arrived at Circular Quay on May 9th, 2013. Unaware of the tragedy that had proceeded the night before, our embarkation was a little delayed, but we were all in good spirits to be finally on our way. We were informed of what had happened on-board soon after we boarded. How fantastic to 'back-up' almost under the Sydney Harbour bridge and then it was full steam ahead into what was to be a fantastic trip. We were worried about sea sickness, but we were fine despite the choppy beginning on our way to Vanuatu. The ship was very stable.
Our cabin was very well appointed and having a couch to sit on inside, as well as chairs out on our balcony, we were well set up. Bathroom facilities were spotless and we experienced no problems. The Cabin staff were amazing and we now love to look at all the pics we took of our nightly, new towel animal or even a dove one night. Dining for us was mainly in the Empire Dining Room where we had anytime dining and chose to share tables with others. This was a boon in that we met many lovely and amazing people, young and older, along the way. Dined in the Nouveau a couple of times as this was a real treat for us. Waiter staff made our evenings very enjoyable and the food, was most delectable.
Our budget did not see fit to do many excursions at our stop-overs, but the ones we did, we were really happy with. Our favourite one would have to be the Chu Chu train around the sights in Noumea with our German guide, along with the beautiful French refreshments up on one of the lookouts. We had some changes with the itinerary due to local 'problems' but in no way did it hamper our enjoyment of our stops at Port Villa, Mystery Island, Lifou, Noumea. When you are cruising you have to be accommodating of any changes due to weather or whatever. Our change meant we got to see Lifou instead of Mare. The tender boats were great and no problems there either...not that we were looking for any!!!
We were above the aft lifeboats but had unobstructed views and were very well protected from prevailing winds.
Could be out on our balcony anytime of day or night and would choose the same position again as we experienced very little movement of the ship here also.